Jean "Barrie" Waldman

Jean “Barrie” Waldman, age 82, passed away on Monday, February 24, 2025. She was born in Beacon, NY, to parents Arthur and Marion Tanner. Barrie’s love for education, the arts, travel, and her family shaped her path and ambitions throughout her life. She earned a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from Boston University, where she met the love of her life, Arthur Waldman. She went on to teach high school English in Ohio while Art completed graduate school, and later in New Jersey before taking a break to raise her three boys—Jeffrey, Ethan, and David—first in Freehold and later settling in Toms River, NJ. As her children grew, she returned to teaching, this time dedicating 23 years to special education at Toms River High School South.

During her incredibly fulfilling life, Barrie explored the world—crossing the country on her honeymoon, spending summers traveling through Europe, and attending theater festivals from Louisville to Edinburgh with Art. She found joy in museums and art shows, and her insatiable curiosity and love of learning kept her vibrant throughout her life. Barrie was blessed with the dearest of friends—from her cherished book club of 46 years to her teaching colleagues and fellow adventurers who joined her on cooking trips in Italy, theater outings in New York City, or simple Sunday brunch conversations. She deeply valued her friendships.

Above all, Barrie lived for her family. An accomplished cook, she prepared dinner nightly, and her dinner parties were coveted invitations. She had close relationships with her sister, Ginger, and the Fisher family, as well as her sister-in-law, Marcia, and the Gingold family. She and Art shared a profound love, mutual interests, and perfectly aligned life goals, creating a lasting legacy for their children. One of Barrie’s proudest achievements was the deep bond of love and respect among her three sons and their families, who continue to support each other through life’s triumphs and challenges. She cherished the connections she built and will be remembered for the many lives she touched.

Barrie is survived by her sons, Jeffrey (Heather) of Toms River, NJ; Ethan (Renae) of Tryon, NC; and David (Lindsay) of Los Angeles, CA; as well as her beloved grandchildren, Lindsay, Sydney, Ella, Natalie, Sutton, and Beckett.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations in Barrie’s memory be made to support any local theater and arts education.

A memorial gathering for Jean will be held Saturday, March 1, 2025 from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Anderson & Campbell Funeral Home, 703 Main Street, Toms River, NJ 08753.